Sodexho Alliance has acquired 60% of French company Sogeres and the entire share capital of US firm Wood Dining Services, in a deal valued at Eur526m (£330m). It is also acquiring the remaining 40% of Sogeres, managed by PAI management, on behalf of BNP Paribas Capital.

The French food and management services company and Sodexho will set up a Steering Committee, chaired by Jean-Paul Fontan, CEO of Sogeres, to develop purchasing synergies and to exchange know-hows as well as share innovations of both companies.

Sogeres’ revenue was Eur284m (£178m) last year and its clients include TF1 (French commercial TV channel), Roland Garros (the French tennis open), and the 'Hôpital Américain' in Paris.

Wood Dining Services operates in 21 American states, providing on-site managed food services to a variety of clients including the National Security Agency, ManorCare and Lehigh University. Last year its revenue was $454m (£318m).

Chairman of Sodexho Alliance, Pierre Bellon, commented: “Sogeres and Wood Dining Services have cultures closely aligned with Sodexho’s. This transaction will allow us to reinforce our worldwide leadership in Food and Management Services and also our number one position in the segments with the highest potential for growth: healthcare, seniors and education.”

www.sodexho.com

www.woodco.com

www.sogeres.fr

Jessica Jarlvi